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Psychiatric Orderly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Psychiatric Orderly information

See salary details

$34K

$111.4K

$225.5K

How much do psychiatric orderly jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for psychiatric orderly in the United States is $111,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an orderly do in a psych ward?

A psychiatric orderly assists with patient care and maintains a safe environment in a psychiatric ward. They may help with patient mobility, monitor patient behavior, and support staff with daily tasks, often working under supervision and following facility protocols.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Orderly vs Psychiatric Technician?

AspectPsychiatric OrderlyPsychiatric Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingPost-secondary certificate or associate degree in psychiatric or mental health
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health facilities, clinicsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, inpatient units
Job DutiesAssist patients with daily activities, monitor behavior, support staffProvide direct patient care, observe and report symptoms, assist with treatment plans

Psychiatric Orderlies typically have less formal education and focus on assisting with daily activities and basic patient support. Psychiatric Technicians usually hold specialized training or certification and perform more clinical tasks, including direct patient care and monitoring. Both roles are essential in mental health settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Psychiatric Orderly, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Orderly, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic healthcare training, and knowledge of mental health disorders. Familiarity with patient monitoring systems, safety protocols, and emergency response procedures is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining a safe environment and providing effective care to individuals with mental health needs.

What are some common challenges psychiatric orderlies face when supporting patients in a mental health facility?

Psychiatric orderlies often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, de-escalating tense situations, and maintaining a safe environment for all patients and staff. They must remain calm under pressure, use strong communication skills, and work closely with nurses, therapists, and other team members to provide consistent care. Adapting to changing patient needs and following strict protocols are essential parts of the job, making resilience and teamwork crucial for success.

What are psychiatric orderlies?

Psychiatric orderlies are healthcare workers who assist in the care and supervision of patients with mental health disorders in psychiatric hospitals or wards. They help maintain a safe environment, support patients with daily activities, and assist medical staff with basic care needs. Their responsibilities often include monitoring patient behavior, helping with personal hygiene, and responding to emergencies. Psychiatric orderlies play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of both patients and staff.
More about Psychiatric Orderly jobs
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Orderly job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,406 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Licensed Psychiatric Technician or Licensed Vocational Nurse (Psychiatry

Aurora San Diego

San Diego, CA

$35 - $40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

As an LPT or LVN for Aurora San Diego, you'll deliver quality direct patient care under appropriate clinical supervision, to adults (typically age 18 and up) with psychiatric or emotional disorders; to serve actively and constructively as a member of the organization's multi-disciplinary treatment team and support the organization's and adult's psychiatric philosophy of care.

*Pay Range: $35/hr. to $40/hr.

Available Shifts:

Full Time: AM Shift (7:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.), PM Shift (3:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M.) and NOC Shift (11:00 P.M. to 7:30 A.M.)

Please Indicate the Preferred Shift

Responsibilities:

  • Administer patient medications
  • Assist dietary staff in identifying patients with special dietary needs and assuring compliance with dietary orders
  • Completes nursing assignments under the supervision of RN
  • Updates treatment care plans under the supervision of RN
  • Participate in treatment planning, identify patients' problems, needs, and strengths
  • Suggest modifications to treatment plans based on observations
  • Provide input into patient discharge planning
  • Accompany and transport patients as assigned
  • Facilitate patient community meetings
  • Maintain patient, and unit related documentation
  • Maintain a safe, orderly, and therapeutic environment for patients
  • Carry out administrative and clerical assignments to support patient care and organizational operations

Requirements

  • Must be a graduate of an approved vocational nursing school
  • Must have a current and active California State Board LVN License or Licensed Psychiatric Technician, (Must provide license number)
  • BLS (Basic Life Support ) Certification for Healthcare Providers - American Heart Association
  • 2 year Acute psychiatric nursing experience HIGHLY preferred

Benefits

  • 401K Retirement Plan
  • Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Healthcare Spending Account & Dependent Care Spending Account
  • Life Insurance (Supplemental Life, Term, and Universal plans are also available)
  • PTO Plan
  • Holiday Premium Pay
  • PTO Cash Out option
  • Sick Pay
  • Short and Long-Term Disability (with additional buy-in opportunities)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • ID Theft Protection
  • Employee Appreciation Events
  • Employee Discount Opportunities